Gazzew LT vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue. The Gazzew LT is a linear switch that is best known for its captivating lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness it produces with each keystroke. Described as "bassy, thocky, and low-pitched," the LT switches offer a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides a tactile and audible click with every key press. While the Blue switches do not have a specific standout feature, they are known for their satisfying click sound. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the Outemu Blue both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing is softer, providing a rich and deep sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, creating a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing and the Blue's nylon bottom housing differ in material, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature compared to the Gazzew blend.
While the Gazzew LT and Outemu Blue both offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also share similarities. Both switches utilize their housing materials to influence the sound profile of the switch, with the top housing impacting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing affecting the sound upon bottom-out. The Gazzew blend and polycarbonate materials each play a crucial role in delivering a unique auditory experience when typing, with the Gazzew blend providing a rich and deep tone and the polycarbonate offering a sharp and clear sound. Despite these differences, both materials are designed to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew LT and Outemu Blue largely depends on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience. The Gazzew LT with its “boba plastic” blend promises a rich and deep sound, while the Outemu Blue with its polycarbonate and nylon housing materials delivers a sharp and clear tone. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a crisper, more resonant sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we can see that the LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Blue switch will require less force to trigger a keystroke, but we do not have information on its bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Blue switch for its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the LT switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance means that the LT switch may provide a quicker response time compared to the Blue switch. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may find the shorter travel distance of the LT switch more fitting for their needs. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper keypress and more tactile feedback may opt for the Outemu Blue switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch is renowned for its deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. The low-pitched nature of the LT switches creates a pleasant auditory symphony with each keystroke, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is relatively unknown in terms of sound description, so it may not provide the same level of depth and richness that the LT switches offer.
In the realm of feel, specific descriptors for both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch are currently unknown. However, based on general characteristics of linear and clicky switches, we can make some assumptions. Linear switches like the LT typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, providing a seamless typing experience. Clicky switches such as the Blue usually have a tactile bump and an audible click during actuation, giving a more tactile and auditory typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that prioritizes a deep and satisfying sound with a seamless typing experience, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with audible feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material, so it's essential to consider all aspects when making your decision.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a deep, rich, and thocky sound profile, the Gazzew LT linear switches would be a great choice for you. Their medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams provides a balanced feel for typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switches may be the right fit for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Consider trying out both options to see which one suits your typing style the best.
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